Gleaned: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'gleaned' comes from the Old French word 'glener,' meaning 'to collect' or 'to gather.'
• Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'glenare,' which is related to the act of gathering crops.
• The term has agricultural origins, referring to the act of gathering leftover food from fields after harvest.

Literature

• In the Bible, the practice of gleaning was a way for the poor to collect leftover crops, highlighting themes of generosity and community.
• The concept of gleaning appears in various literary works, often symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom from scattered sources.
• Modern literary analyses suggest that 'gleaned' may represent extracting deeper meanings from philosophical texts or complex narratives.

Cultural Significance

• In many cultures, gleaning is not just about collecting leftovers, but is also a vital practice for sustainability and sharing resources.
• Historical gleaning rights were often protected by law, ensuring that those in need could access the leftover harvest in fields.
• The act of gleaning is celebrated in art, most famously in Jean-François Millet’s painting 'The Gleaners,' showcasing the dignity of labor.

Psychology

• Gleaning information can be seen as a cognitive strategy where individuals learn from the environment and context around them.
• Research suggests that 'gleaning' can enhance critical thinking, as it often involves connecting disparate pieces of information.
• The process of gleaning experiences is crucial for memory retention and can influence how we form relationships and create narratives.

Environmental Studies

• Gleaning is increasingly recognized today as a method to reduce food waste, allowing surplus food to be utilized instead of discarded.
• Organizations focused on food recovery often use gleaning as a strategy to feed the hungry while minimizing environmental impact.
• Gleaning initiatives promote community involvement and awareness about food production and consumption, fostering a culture of sustainability.

With rank #16,022, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 16019 barked
• 16020 overtake
• 16021 campaigning
• 16022 gleaned
• 16023 unearned
• 16024 unconnected
• 16025 calorie
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